Overview

The Magnetic Resonance Research Center at ASU (MRRC) is the regional southwest resource for characterization and structure determination of proteins, DNA, Biomolecules, chemical compounds, and solid materials by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR). This world-class facility has 850, 800, 600, and 500 MHz NMR spectrometers optimized for protein, biopolymer and DNA structure studies, two 400 MHz spectrometers for routine synthetic and drug design applications, and a 400 MHz wide-bore system for solid state NMR, diffusion and exotic NMR experiments. 

The 850, 800, and 600 MHz NMR systems are equipped with cryogenically cooled triple resonance probes. The 850 and 800 MHz instrument have dual solids/liquids capabilities, including the first Ultra-Fast Magic-Angle Spinning probe and BioMAS probe at 800 MHz. The center also has unique Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) capabilities with the 800 MHz instrument using a 12 mm MRI probe with 300 G/cm imaging gradients.  The ultra high magnetic field (18.8 T) provides large gains in sensitivity and resolution for imaging and localized spectroscopy, facilitating a level of detail not accessible with lower field instruments. 

The MRRC has over 20 high-performance UNIX/Linux/Windows/Mac-based graphics workstations available for instrument control and data analysis. The workstations are equipped with a wide variety of software for processing and analysis of NMR spectra, solids simulation, protein and DNA structure determination, imaging, and molecular modeling and dynamics. Furthermore, the MRRC houses a self-contained laboratory for protein expression and characterization. The center also provides a dedicated teaching facility, including a 400 MHz spectrometer, printer, server, workstations and presentation equipment. 

The MRRC, formerly known as the ASU Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Facility, is located in a 5,500 sq. ft. laboratory in the basement (L2) of the Interdisciplinary Science and Technology building I (ISTB-I, Room L2-63). The MRRC supports collaborative research and training in NMR/MRI across disciplines, and provides a special emphasis for support of projects at the interfaces of molecular medicine, bio-engineering, bio-inspired chemistry and physics, and materials research. The MRRC is designed to expand with the growing needs for NMR/MRI research capabilities, not only within ASU, but from regional research institutions as well.

Using the MRRC Instruments

All seven NMR instruments in the MRRC are available to users for a variety of work.  Please use the outline below to gain access to the MRRC:

Routine NMR:

Routine NMR is primarily handled through automation in the MRRC.  Before accessing equipment, you will need to complete account setup as described thorougly in this manual.   An overview of the required steps is given below:

1)  Create an iLab service ID:  In the services tab of the MRRC's iLab page, please initiate a request.  Upon completion, you will be assigned an iLab service ID, which you will need to enter one-time in subsequent steps outlined below.

2)  Register for an account at Spintropy.   This site allows you to store and access all data collected in the MRRC, and also provides billing services.  

3)  Complete the account setup procedure as described in the manual to link your Spintropy account to iLab using the service ID you generated in step 1.

4)  Upon completion of steps 1-3, you must schedule a short (5-10 minute) training for using instruments with MRRC staff scientists (contact info below).   After training is complete, you will have 24/7 access to the MRRC for certain instruments.

Solids NMR / High Field NMR / Other:

Please consult the MRRC staff scientists for all non-routine NMR work.

Leadership

Location and hours of operation

Links and Resources

1. MRRC Web Page

For information on rates, contact the core manager.

Contacts

Available Equipment and Resources

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